The
information provided on this Herb & Supplement Information
page is is provided for educational purposes only.
It does
not constitute medical or professional advice, but rather sharing
of information obtained from my research on the use of herbs
and herbal remedies. The
information provided below is not intended to diagnose or prescribe.
The statements presented on this site have not been evaluated
by the Food and Drug Administration. The use of herbs for the
prevention or cure of disease has not been approved by the FDA
or USDA. Please read of the full disclaimer
at the bottom of this page.

Astragalus
- Astragalus membranaceous.General Information: Used in traditional Chinese and East Indian medicine for its immune-enhancing
and tonic properties. Traditionally used for:Immunostimulant,
antiviral, anti-inflammatory, mildly depresses thyroid function,
lowers blood pressure, helps with blood cleaning, strengthens digestion.Common Uses: Used to boost resistance to disease. In chinese medicine, it is
used for spleen and lung qi deficiency, including symptoms
of emaciation, weariness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite,
diarrhea, and prolapse of the uterus or anus. This herb may be a
viable option for early treatment of kennel cough. Is thought to
strengthen kidney function, so could be useful in early stages of
kidney infection or renal failure.Safety Information:Should
not be used for animals (or humans) with abnormally functioning
immune systems. This includes any disease where the immune system
actually works against itself such as multiple sclerosis, leukosis,
diabetes mellitus or feline immunodeficiency.

CalendulaTraditionally
used for: Calendula is traditionally renowned for
its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and healing
properties. Calendula Infused Oil can be used for skin irritation
due to chafing, wind, cold or dry air exposure, to help heal dry,
cracked or itchy skin, cuts, infected and inflamed wounds, hard-to-heal
sores. Calendula Infused Oil has been known to decreases the inflammation
of sprains, stings, and other swellings, soothes skin irritations,
stimulates wound healing, and soothes pain. Calendula oil is often
used to aid in lessening scarring after wounds heal and after stitches
are removed.

Chamomile (German)- Matricaria recutitaTraditionally used for:Antispasmodic, expels intestinal gas, anti-inflammatory, sedative,antimicrobial, stimulates digestion, heals
wounds, expels wormsCommon Uses:Chamomile is used as a mild sedative, antispasmodic, and
digestive tonic that is safe, gentle and effective in a broad spectrum
of applications. Externally, chamomile it is used for inflammation
of skin and mucous membranes caused by fleabites, contact allergies
and various bacterial or fungal infections.Safety Information:Use during pregnancy should be limited.

Comfrey - Symphytum officinaleCommon Uses: Comfrey’s alternative name of "knitbone" gives some
clue as to the major use of the herb. Often used to make as a pain
soothing poultice or as an Infused Oil to help heal severe cuts,
swellings, mend sprains and broken bones, and promote the "coming
to head" of boils and abscesses.
Could be used on the knees of goats with CAE to help alleviate some
of the pain and swelling. Comfrey Infused Oil may also used for
dry, chapped skin & calluses, cuts, abrasions, bites, stings,
and other skin irritations. Traditionally used to reduce swelling
and inflammation around fractures as well as to help heal broken
bones.
Note: Because Comfrey may heal the skin so quickly, be sure that
the site is well cleaned as any dirt/debris may be sealed in (which
could then cause infection). Safety Information: If using on open skin, be sure that the site is well cleaned as
any dirt/debris may be sealed in (could then cause infection), as
comfrey can heal the skin over very quickly.
FDA
Caution:
External use only. Do not use on broken skin. Not to be used during
pregnancy. Use with caution.

Echinacea - Echinacea purpurea. General Information: Also
called Purple Coneflower is native to the U.S., This plant was the
most widely used medicinal plant of the Central Plains Indians,
being used for a variety of conditions. Traditionally used for:Immunostimulant, antimicrobial, Common Uses: Used to support
and stimulate the immune system, antimicrobial, colds, flues, infections,
sore throats, fevers, snake bite remedy, treatment of colic in
horses. Safety Information:Should not be used for animals with abnormally functioning
immune systems. This includes any disease where the immune system
actually works against itself such as multiple sclerosis, leukosis,
diabetes mellitus or feline immunodeficiency.

Feverfew - Tanacetum partheniumTraditionally used for: Anti-inflammatory,
helps reduce arthritic inflammation, dilates blood vessels, insecticidal,
promotes menstruationCommon Uses:Used in the treatment of migraines, fever, menstrual disorders,
may be useful in the reduction of inflammation associated with arthritis,
joint injuries, and various diseases. Feverfew is can be useful
in cats as an alternative to aspirin. Flea deterrent.Safety Information: Allergies to feverfew and other members of the Asteraceae.
Fresh foliage should not be fed to animals because it may result
in mouth ulcers (make sure the herb is dried first). Do not use
internally for periods exceeding one week. Do not use during pregnancy

GlucosamineSulfateGeneral
Information: Glucosamine,
a sugar produced in the body and found in small amounts in foods,
plays an important role in maintaining cartilage, the gel-like material
that cushions joints. It is used by the body, to synthesize the
molecules that give shape, elasticity, and rigidity to such tissues
as cartilage, tendons, ligaments, discs, and mucous membranes. It
helps restore the thick, gelatinous nature of the lubricants and
tissues in and around joints. Glucosamine helps provide these joint
"protectants" to your pet when his body is no longer creating
enough on its own, during times of excess stress and wear, or after
injury. Glucosamine Sulfate has been used successfully both for
intermediate rebuilding therapy and as long-term preventative maintenance.

When taken as
a dietary supplement, glucosamine may help to relieve the pain,
stiffness, and swelling of osteoarthritis in which cartilage has
worn down. Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers report improvements with
glucosamine supplements as well, as do individuals with other types
of joint injuries. Some 70 countries around the world sanction glucosamine
as a treatment for individuals with mild to moderately severe osteoarthritis.

While there
is no readily available source of glucosamine in foods--the shells
of crabs, shrimp and oysters contain it but aren't typically consumed--several
supplement forms have become widely available. These include glucosamine
sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG).
Glucosamine sulfate is the form best absorbed by the body and the
one most commonly used to treat osteoarthritis. Interestingly, for
years veterinarians have treated arthritis in certain animals with
glucosamine hydrochloride.

Glucosamine may help to:

Relieve
osteoarthritis-related pain, stiffness and swelling. Studies indicate that some arthritis sufferers experience improved
range of motion after taking glucosamine. Others report increased
overall mobility. And several studies suggest that glucosamine
may be as effective in easing arthritic pain and inflammation--and
not nearly as irritating to the stomach--as the NSAIDs (nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs) typically recommended for osteoarthritis.

Slow
and possibly halt osteoarthritis-related damage to joints. Glucosamine appears to protect and strengthen the cartilage around
joints, particularly in the knees, hips, spine, and hands. In
so doing, it may help to prevent further joint damage. And while
it can do little to actually restore cartilage that has completely
worn away--or reverse joint damage that has already occurred--glucosamine
appears to slow the development of mild to moderately severe osteoarthritis.
Traditional NSAIDs prescribed for arthritis, in contrast, actually
impair the body's cartilage-building capacity.

Speed
healing of strains and sprains. Because it helps
to reinforce the cartilage around joints, glucosamine may hasten
the healing of acute joint injuries, such as sprained ankles or
fingers. The same is true of muscle injuries such as strains.
In strengthening joints, glucosamine may also help to prevent
future injury.

Control
back pain. By helping to reinforce cartilage,
glucosamine is believed to strengthen the tissue supporting the
spinal disks that line the back. Back pain resulting from either
muscle strain or arthritis may therefore improve with glucosamine.
The supplement may also speed healing of strained back muscles
in this way. Pain in the upper spine and neck may similarly respond
to glucosamine.

Promote
healthy aging. As the body ages, the cartilage
supporting and cushioning all the joints tends to wear down. Glucosamine
may help to postpone this process by giving cartilage a boost,
protecting and strengthening it overall. The complications of
osteoarthritis, a largely age-related disorder, are therefore
also less likely to occur.

Kava
Kava - Piper methysticumCommon Uses: Used for conditions
of nervous anxiety, stress, and restlessness. Sedative and sleep
enhancement. Safety Information:Could cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances. In rare
cases, allergic skin reactions can occur. Not recommended during
pregnancy and lactation. FDA
Caution: Not for
use by persons under the age of 18. If pregnant, nursing or taking
a prescription drug, consult your health care practitioner prior
to use. Do not exceed recommended dose. Excessive consumption may
impair ability to drive or operate heavy equipment.

Licorice
Root - Glycyrrhiza glabra. General Information: Licorice is one of the most widely used medicinal plants in the
world, commonly used in European, Arabian and Asian traditional
medicine systems.Traditionally used for: Expectorant; helps with blood cleansing; lubricates, soothes,
and protects mucous membranes; anti-inflammatory; adrenal stimulant;
mild laxative; immunostimulantCommon Uses:Licorice is used as fast acting and effective anti-immflammatory (Nature's
answer to hydrocortisone). Used externally to relieve the uncomfortable
symptoms of various skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, contact
dermatitis, and flea allergies. Could be beneficial in the treatment
and prevention of many forms of liver disease. Used as demulcent,
anti-inflammatory, and expectorant for gastrointestinal and upper
respiratory tracts. Safety Information:Moderation and insight are the primary rules when using
licorice. When used in large, highly concentrated doses, especially
over long periods, several hydrocortisone-like side effects may
occur: water retention, hypertension, loss of potassium, sodium
retention, and other symptoms of adrenal hyperactivity. May elevate
blood sugar levels and should be used with caution in diabetic animals.
Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.

MSM - MethylSulfonylMethaneGeneral
Information: MSM is a naturally occurring, bioavailable
sulfur compound. MSM is necessary for collagen synthesis: skin,
hair and nails (bones, muscles and organs). Some experts believe
it softens the tissue, relieves stress, asthma, arthritis, inflammation,
constipation, Candida, detoxifies the body and increases blood circulation,
reduces muscle cramps and back pain, permits muscles to heal, increases
energy, mental calmness and may improve the ability to concentrate.
MSM appears to inhibit pain impulses that travel along nerve fibers,
acting as an analgesic. This property, along with the compound's
potential anti-inflammatory actions, are often cited in explaining
its use for combating the symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, carpal
tunnel syndrome and allergies. In addition, MSM may reduce muscle
spasms, increase blood flow and possibly contribute to the maintenance
and repair of cartilage. Studies in rats indicate that MSM may help
to delay the growth of certain types of cancerous tumors.

MSM
may help to:

Relieve
arthritis symptoms. Those who use MSM supplements
contend that it not only helps treat osteoarthritis--the degenerative
form of arthritis that wears down cartilage over time--but rheumatoid
arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune-related conditions as well.
It may also help to maintain or repair cartilage, the gel-like
substance that cushions joints and that is a key ingredient of
connective tissue.

Treat
chronic back pain. Taken in conjunction with supplements
such as SAMe and glucosamine sulfate, MSM may be useful for treating
chronic back pain resulting from muscle strain, ligament sprain,
or the early degenerative changes that can affect joints and discs
in the back. Advanced disc disease does not appear to respond
to MSM treatment, however.

Reduce
allergy symptoms. MSM may block histamines, compounds
that can irritate and inflame the membranes of the nose, eyes,
and throat. Some people have found MSM more effective than antihistamines
for allergies, without the side effects so common in standard
prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Oregon
Grape Root - Mahonia aquifoliumTraditionally
used for: Antimicrobial, stimulates bile production,
anti-inflammatory, tonic, antiparsiticCommon Uses: Used against
various forms of staphylococci, E. coli and other gram-negitive
bacteria. Thought to be effective against giardiasis, a parasitic
infestation of the digestive tract. May combats various fungal infections
of the ears, eyes, and the mucous membranes of the vagina and urinary
tract. Used against conjunctivitis. Stimulates liver function. Also
used for infections of the bladder, kidneys, and urethra.Safety Information:Should not be used in animals with acute liver disease
or existing liver injuries without supervision of a professional.Not recommended during pregnancy.

St.
John's Wort - Hypericum perforatum. Traditionally used for: Wound
healing, moderates nerve transmissions, antiseptic, antidepressive,
immunostimulantCommon Uses: Antidressant (Used as substitute for Prozac). St. John's Wort is
thought to have antiviral, vulneray (wound & burn healing),
nerve tonic, and antibacterial activities unparalleled by any other
herb. This herb could be used against a wide variety of bacteria,
fungi and even viruses & retroviral infections. Could be used
to treat FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), influenza, herpes,
and viral hepatitis (particularly in ducks and other fowl). May
be effective as a preventive measure in dogs who have been exposed
to canine herpes or in cats, horses, or other animals suffering
from a herpes virus. This herb will not cure the animal of herpes,
but it may help keep the virus in check. Though I have no research
to back it up, I also believe this herb could possibly be used in
the treatment CAE in goats. Safety Information:Can cause photosensitivity (sunburn like rash). Keep animals
that have light hair, white or pink skin, or a short coat out of
direct sunlight if possible. FDA
Caution: St.
John’s Wort may reduce the effectiveness of certain prescription
drugs and also cause adverse reactions. To be safe, do not administer
this herb if already administering any prescription drugs.

Slippery
Elm Bark - Ulmus rubra
I consider
this a "must have" to have on hand for the treatment of
animals. Used to make Herbal
Dosage Balls;
this is what binds and holds the balls together. It
also has a pleasant pecan-like sweet taste which makes the balls
more enticing. Safe for use in all animals. Safe to use during pregnancy
and lactation. Common Uses: Traditionally used to treat diarrhea, constipation, enteritis, colitis
& irritations of the stomach. Used to soothe, protect &
lubricate mucous membranes. Also, used to relieve the discomforts
of kennel cough & other types of bronchitis. Slippery Elm is
also extremely nutritious; can be fed to convalescing animals as
a nutritional digestive tonic. Slippery Elm is also a good addition
to poultices, as it not only helps hold the poultice together but
also helps heal wounds, ulcers, boils and abscesses.

Stevia - Stevia rebaudianaCommon
Use: Stevia
is a non-sugar sweetening agent. Said to be 200 times sweeter than
sugar; a little goes a very long way. I add a small amount of Stevia
to my formulas to sweeten them, thus making them easier to administer.
Can be used as a sweetener for diabetic animals because if does
not effect blood sugar. I also use this to sweeten herbal teas.

Valerian - Valeriana officinalis. General Information: Valerian is thought to be an effective and reliable sedative and
sleep aid. It is used for conditions of anxiety, insomnia and nervous
irritability. Unlike prescription or OTC sleep and anxiety medication,
it is not habit-forming, nor does it produce a hang-over-like side
effect.Common Uses:Restlessness, sleeping disorders based on nervous conditions. Safety Information: Can cause digestive upset if used in large doses. Not recommended
during pregnancy.

Wormwood
- Artemisia absinthium Common
Uses: Digestive distress,
stomach aches, food poisoning, amoebic dysentery, diarrhea, parasites.
Not to be used during pregnancy. Safety Information: Use with caution. Avoid excessive or long term use.
FDA Caution:
Considered unsafe by the FDA for use in foods.
Not for human consumption.

Yellowdock
Root - Rumex crispus Traditionally
used for: Stimulates bile production, helps with
blood cleansing, laxative, antimicrobial, nutritive.Common Uses: Used in the
treating constipation and iron deficiency. May aid in eliminating
waste from the bloodstream and digestive tract.Safety Information: Not
recommended during pregnancy.

* Disclaimer:The products offered on this web site are not intended to diagnose,
treat,
cure, mitigate or
prevent any disease.

The
information and statements presented on this site have not been
evaluated or approved by the
Food and Drug Administration. The use of herbs and essential
oil for the prevention, treatment, mitigation or cure of disease has not
been approved by the
FDA
or USDA.
We
therefore make no claims to this effect.

We
are not veterinarians or doctors. The information on this site
is based on the traditional and historic use of herbs as well
as personal experience and is provided for general reference and
educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, prescribe
or promote any direct or implied health claims. This information
is and products are not intended to replace professional veterinary and/or medical
advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat
any health problems or illnesses without consulting your vet and/or
doctor. We present the products on this site and the information
supplied here without guarantees, and we disclaim all liability
in connection with the use of these products and/or information.
Any person making the decision to act upon this information is
responsible for investigating and understanding the effects of
their own actions. Please
read our Services and Conditions
of Use and Limitation Of
Liability policy.

Copyright (c) 1997-2018 Molly Nolte. All rights reserved.
All text written by Molly Nolte unless otherwise noted.All graphics, photos and text on these pages
were created by, and are
the sole property of Molly Nolte.Individuals are granted the right to download a single
copy of this page for archival purposes on electronic media and/or
conversion into a single printed copy for personal use.

All other
use or reproduction of this material, such as in publications or use on other web
sites is strictly prohibited. It may not
otherwise be reprinted or recopied, in whole or in part, in any
form or medium, without express written permission from Molly Nolte.

This site may be used as a referance if proper credit is provided and a web link is given.